Islam, the world’s second-largest religion, is followed by over two billion people globally. From the Arab world to Africa and South Asia, Muslims are found in almost every corner of the globe. Indonesia holds the title for having the largest Muslim population. However, there exists a country where following Islam is almost impossible, making life for its citizens comparable to a living hell—this country is North Korea.
Despite Islam’s vast global reach, North Korea has an almost negligible Muslim population, and practicing Islam there is practically banned. The only mosque in the country is located within the Iranian embassy in Pyongyang, accessible exclusively to Iranian nationals.
North Korea officially identifies itself as an atheist and communist state. While the government promotes traditional belief systems like Shamanism and Chondoism, it harshly suppresses external religions, particularly Islam.
Under the rule of its dictator, Kim Jong Un, following Islam or any foreign religion is considered a crime. Laws in the country emphasize that no religion should harm the state, society, or social fabric. However, this rule is often weaponized to curb religious freedom entirely.
Citizens in North Korea face a severe lack of personal freedoms. From their daily activities to what they can access on their phones, everything is controlled by the government. The authoritarian regime is known for imposing the death penalty for acts of dissent or disobedience against state orders.
In this oppressive environment, practicing Islam or any faith outside state-sanctioned beliefs is not just difficult but life-threatening. North Korea remains a stark reminder of what happens when religious freedom is entirely stripped away, leaving its people at the mercy of a dictatorship.
